Tooling Process Engineering Manager

Overview

SCHERDEL SALES & TECHNOLOGY, INC

Tooling Process Engineering Manager

Reports To:

Plant Manager

Department:
Administrative

The Tooling Process Engineering Manager is responsible for leading and overseeing tooling teams from design to build. This role ensures strategic alignment, operational excellence, and adherence to company standards in tooling production, maintenance, utilization, and innovation. The Manager drives cross-departmental collaboration, continuous improvement, and future-focused leadership development within the tooling discipline to meet the business and customer demands.

• Develop and execute tooling strategies aligned with company goals and standards.
• Oversee Tooling departments, ensuring consistent performance, coaching, and leadership development.
• Ensure compliance with tooling quality, production timelines, and cost efficiency across all regional sites.
• Collaborate with design engineering, manufacturing, and project teams to support program launches and tooling solutions.
• Drive standardization and best practices for tooling operations, systems, and KPIs across regions.
• Support innovation in tool design, materials, and build processes through partnership with R&D and external suppliers.
• Incorporate a forward-thinking approach to tooling innovation by promoting advanced tool design methodologies, emerging technologies, and digitalization across all tooling functions.
• Oversee the operations of tool room functions, including the assembly of complex tools and dies, ensuring proper fit and function.
• Ensure precise machining of tool components in alignment with design specifications and production requirements.
• Evaluate and maintain the surface condition and readiness of tools to meet quality and performance standards before release to production.
• Oversee capital tooling project execution and risk mitigation plans for SST
• Lead improvement initiatives, audits, and alignment of safety and quality policies.
• Facilitate regular communication between tooling leaders, ensuring seamless coordination and issue resolution.
• Mentor and evaluate Tooling leaders, ensuring succession planning and leadership pipeline development.
• Participate in global tooling reviews, business planning, and supplier evaluations.
• Ensure compliance with legal, environmental, and corporate requirements in all tooling functions.
• Maintain strong relationships with internal and external customers to ensure tooling needs are met proactively and professionally.

• Technical Skills
  • Tool and Die Design – Deep understanding of die design, tool construction, and CAD/CAM software. Preferable Bihler Technology experience.
  • Manufacturing Processes – Expertise in machining, stamping, and metal forming.
  • Quality Control – Knowledge of inspection techniques, tolerances, and quality standards (e.g., ISO, Six Sigma).
  • Maintenance Planning – Experience with preventive and predictive maintenance of tooling systems.
  • Lean Manufacturing – Familiarity with lean principles, 5S, Kaizen, and continuous improvement.
• Leadership & Management Skills
  • Strategic Planning – Ability to align tooling operations with broader business goals.
  • Team Leadership – Leading cross-functional teams of designers, engineers, technicians and toolmakers. Holding team members accountable.
  • Project Management – Managing timelines, budgets, and resources for tooling projects.
  • Vendor Management – Coordinating together with Purchasing external suppliers and contractors.
  • Training & Development – Mentoring staff and fostering skill development, clear goal/expectation settings, quarterly evaluations.
• Analytical & Business Acumen
  • Cost Analysis – Evaluating tooling costs, ROI, and cost-saving opportunities.
  • Data-Driven Decision Making – Using KPIs and metrics to guide operations.
  • Problem Solving – Root cause analysis and troubleshooting complex tooling issues.
• Soft Skills
  • Communication – Clear communication with executives, engineers, and shop floor personnel.
  • Adaptability – Navigating changes in technology, materials, and production demands.
  • Attention to Detail – Precision in design, documentation, and execution.

• Stabilize current production at SST.
• Standardize tooling concepts and builds.
• Implement and live a gate system for new tools, including:
  • Proof of concept (eventually simulation on Bihler Design Software).
  • Participation in tool sourcing.
  • Tool fine tuning on machine.
  • Readiness for production.
• Develop maintenance intervals and standards.
• Establish career plans for each member of the toolroom and design department.
• Implement next generation of tool monitoring (e.g., live sensors).